A Vancouver Island man has been reunited with his beloved dog after weeks of searching and uncertainty.
Bruno, the two-year-old Shiba Inu who was allegedly stolen from his owner in Crofton last month, has been found safe and returned, thanks in part to a Victoria Buzz article.
According to Bruno’s owner, Don Dimen, the man who originally took the dog handed him over to a couple. After seeing media reports about the missing pup, the couple contacted police, who worked with ROAM (Reuniting Owners with Animals Missing) to ensure Bruno made it safely to the CRD Animal Shelter.
“Today is a great day,” owner Don Dimen shared, along with a photo of himself reunited with Bruno. “I had tears in my eyes once I saw him again.”
According to Dimen, the man who initially took Bruno had passed the dog along to the unsuspecting couple. It was the wife who recognized Bruno’s face from the media coverage and realized he had been reported stolen.
“Leslie from ROAM was so helpful. The staff at the shelter were also incredibly kind,” Dimen said.
The emotional reunion capped off weeks of worry and searching. Bruno was described as happy and healthy, with no signs of harm.
“I’m so thankful to the couple who did the right moral thing,” said Dimen. “And to Saanich Police, ROAM, and Victoria Buzz for getting the word out. Media shows it makes a big difference.”
Dimen has since relocated to the Lower Mainland with Bruno, where they’ll be starting a new chapter together. He also shared a word of advice to fellow pet owners: “Never leave your dog unattended or out of sight.”
